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Township Trails

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History

During the 18th and 19th centuries numerous mills, a tannery, and other commercial operations were located along the banks of the Darby and Little Darby creeks in the corridor now occupied by the Radnor Township Hiking Trails. The remains of these enterprises along with a number of houses, barns, and outbuildings can be found along the trails. Many of the trails follow paths that were already well established by area wildlife, Native Americans, and some of the Township’s earliest industrialists. Work on the Radnor Hiking Trails began in 1996 and continues today. The trails were created by the Township in partnership with a number of local volunteer organizations, including the Friends of Radnor Trails, multiple Boy Scout troops, and various church groups. These organizations designed many of the trails, cleared vegetation, removed fallen limbs and other debris, and blazed trees.

Features & Amenities

The Radnor Hiking Trails are part of a network of hiking paths that lead through some of the most scenic woodlands, peaceful meadows, and historically significant areas in the Township. The southern section of the trail network extends from the intersection of West Wayne Avenue and Maplewood Road near Wayne Elementary School to Saw Mill Park. There are six interconnected trail systems that comprise the southern portion of the trail network. Each of these trail systems has its own special characteristics and distinctive features. They are: Dittmar Park Walking Track, Brooke Farm Trails, Inverary Trail, Willows Trail, Skunk Hollow Trail, and Saw Mill Trail. The surrounding woods are populated by beeches, tulip trees, sycamores, oaks, and maples. The shade created by these trees and the moist conditions from the creek provide an ideal setting for wildflowers to grow. The woods, meadows, and ponds along the trails provide habitats for a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, and skunks. The trail network is also a popular venue for bird-watching. The total distance covered by all the trails in the network is approximately 5 miles.